UP’s geriatric population to cross 12% mark by 2036, suggests data

Lucknow: By 2036, every 8th person in Uttar Pradesh would fall into the geriatric age group category. These projections, based on data from the National Commission on Population and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, underline the rapidly rising healthcare, social security and life-cycle needs of the elderly population in India's most populous state. The demographic shift — from a predominantly young population to a steadily ageing one—came into sharp focus at a day-long academic programme on geriatric care held at SGPGIMS recently. Their current proportion in population stands at about 8% which is expected to cross 12% by 2036. The programme was organised by the General Hospital and the Department of Hospital Administration under the aegis of the Geriatrics Society of India (UP Chapter). Director RK Dhiman highlighted the need to build systems that are not only medically efficient but also humane and responsive to the complex needs of senior citizens. Prof A K Singh spoke on fall prevention among the elderly, stressing that simple preventive strategies can significantly reduce morbidity, disability and hospitalisation. Dean Prof Shaleen Kumar and CMS Prof Devendra Gupta reiterated the institute's commitment to developing geriatric-friendly infrastructure. Prof Kausar Usman from KGMU, emphasised that while cognitive screening, vaccinations and assistive devices are essential, empathy, dignity, ethical decision-making and patient-centred communication remain central to quality elderly care.